Do you dream of swimming with the Bahamas’ famous pigs in the Exumas? On Big Major Cay, a cove of white sand and turquoise water has become world-famous: “Pig Beach.” You can land by dinghy or anchor just offshore: the water is crystal-clear and the setting feels almost unreal. Between two swims, you’ll spot the little islets of the archipelago and rays gliding over the sandy bottom. To turn this short stop into a real island-hopping adventure, rent a boat in the Bahamas.
The story of Big Major Cay
These pigs have a history made of legends as much as facts. Some say a crew left them behind after a shipwreck; others that residents of Staniel Cay brought them over in the 1990s for farming and they grew used to visitors. Over time, the small colony settled on Big Major Cay, and sailors nicknamed the beach “Pig Beach.” Today, they’ve become an icon of the Exumas, and local operators manage access to protect the site and the animals’ well-being.
How to get to Pig Beach
From Nassau, fast day trips by speedboat reach the Exumas, but the best way to enjoy the lagoon is a multi-day cruise from Great Exuma or Staniel Cay. Renting a catamaran or a sailboat lets you alternate between clear-water anchorages, snorkeling at Thunderball Grotto and stops at Compass Cay, while arriving at Pig Beach during the quietest hours.
When to see the Bahamas pigs
Conditions are ideal from November to April: calmer seas, little rain and crisp light for photos.
Avoid the most active hurricane period (especially August–October), when outings can be canceled and the sea turns unpredictable. In winter, passing cold fronts can bring 15–20 knots of north-easterly wind. During the peak holiday season (Christmas, February–March), book well in advance to enjoy Pig Beach at the best times. An early-morning start remains the secret to avoiding crowds.
You can also check our top destinations for Christmas sailing.
Which boat to choose for the Exumas?
A catamaran is perfect for its shallow draft and spacious living areas—great for slipping into the white-sand anchorages around Big Major Cay. A monohull sailboat suits more sporty crews who enjoy time at the helm and lower fuel consumption. Powerboats shorten hops between islets, handy if you’re short on time. Prioritize a generous bimini, a motorized dinghy for beach landings, a good cooler and, if possible, a watermaker for autonomy. Always check the snorkeling kit (fins/masks) and up-to-date electronic charts.
Practical tips for meeting the Bahamas pigs
- Book a skipper or certified operator if you’re not comfortable with local navigation.
- Approach calmly, stay in shallow water and let the animals come to you.
- Do not give alcohol, bread or processed foods: follow your guide’s rules (limited quantities of approved fruit/veg).
- Do not touch or climb on the pigs, and keep your distance from piglets.
- Protect the environment: no litter, no oily sunscreen in the water, no low-flying drones over the animals.
- Check the weather (wind, currents) and bring water, a hat, a rash guard and water shoes for hot sand.
Safety & sea conditions
In the Exumas, the prevailing easterlies can create short chop; plan short tacks and choose well-sheltered anchorages for the wind direction. Always check the marine forecast and time your passes for favorable tide, especially with deeper-draft boats. At anchor, favor sand, avoid seagrass and confirm holding before going ashore. On the beach, shut off engines and secure the dinghy to protect swimmers and wildlife. A working VHF, a complete first-aid kit and good hydration are essential.
Beyond the “postcard” shot, a successful visit respects the rhythm of the islands and the animals. Keep a flexible itinerary, combine Pig Beach with nearby anchorages and savor the Exumas at sunset. Whether you choose a family catamaran, a sporty sailboat or a crewed motorboat, you’ll discover an archipelago where the sea is a sheet of azure and every cove hides a secret.
Ready for a timeless moment in the Bahamas? Rent a boat in the Bahamas.
FAQ – Bahamas Swimming Pigs
On Big Major Cay, near Staniel Cay in the northern Exumas (Bahamas). The island is uninhabited; access is only by boat.
From Nassau or Great Exuma on a fast day trip, or on a private cruise departing Staniel Cay. Sailing by sailboat/catamaran helps you avoid the busiest hours.
Year-around, with often optimal conditions from November to April. Arrive early (before 9 a.m.) or late afternoon for more tranquility.
They live freely: sighting are very likely but never guaranteed. Weather, time of day and crowd levels influence their behavior.
Yes. Stay calm, in shallow water, and don’t force contact. Let the animals approach you.
Don’t climb on or chase the pigs; no alcohol or processed foods, no flash in their eyes; no litter. Always follow your skipper’s briefing.
Highly recommended if you don’t know the area (shoals, currents, excursion traffic). A local skipper also optimizes timing.
No. Big Major Cay is wild: no restrooms or kiosks. Everything you bring must leave with you.
Yes: Thunderball Grotto, Compass Cay (nurse sharks), Exumas sandbars, and the Pipe Creek sandbanks. Perfect for island-hopping.
